What Is Guayusa, Anyway?

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You know it as one third of the all-star trio behind Energy Multiplier (shout out to Matcha and Ginger), but how well do you actually know Guayusa? 

Formally known as Ilex guayusa, this powerhouse ingredient hails from Ecuador and the Amazon rainforest. Guayusa is technically a tree, but it’s the leaves of said tree that are (and always have been) the true star of this show. Guayusa leaves have been used to make medicinal teas for centuries. These days, Guayusa is the hero ingredient used in a whole host of premium energy drinks, whether that be in extract or powder form. Let’s dive into what makes the ingredient such a popular choice for wellness enthusiasts. 

Colloquially referred to as “the night watchman,” Guayusa has long been celebrated for its potent energy-boosting benefits, used by Amazonian hunters to stay awake all night without making any sudden movements. The highly caffeinated herbal tea is often compared to yerba mate, another popular South American infusion made from the leaves of a different rainforest holly tree. Unlike yerba mate, which has a distinctly bitter taste, Guayusa is known for its sweet flavor profile. From green to oolong to darjeeling, there are plenty of teas that boast impressive health benefits and wellness claims. Therefore, it’s only fair to ask: what makes Guayusa so unique? 

For one, a cup of Guayusa tea contains roughly the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee. What gives Guayusa an edge over that plain ol’ cup of joe is the addition of theobromine, an alkaloid that also naturally occurs in chocolate. According to Healthline, when consumed together, theobromine and caffeine have been shown to boost cognitive function and focus. Some preliminary research also suggests that Guayusa may provide a less jittery jolt of caffeine than that of coffee. 

In addition to its impressive caffeine content, Guayusa is also a powerful source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that may protect against free radical damage in your body, and potentially defend against conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, just to name a few. 

With so many beneficial claims to fame, it’s no wonder that Guayusa has found a prominent place in the modern wellness arsenal. As a less jittery coffee alternative and a powerful source of antioxidants, this under-the-radar South American wonder elixir may be the answer to your morning woes and afternoon crashes. Curious to give Guayusa a try? Look no further than Energy Multiplier. Our great-tasting Energy Blend combines Matcha, Guayusa, and Ginger to deliver ~100mg of fast-acting natural caffeine. In other words: a great way to reach your constant state of awesome.

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